Tributes paid to former Waterford FC midfielder Karolis Chvedukas (32)

Tributes have been paid to former Waterford FC midfielder Karolis Chvedukas, who passed away in his native Lithuania yesterday at the age of 32.

The midfielder was capped 20 times for his country, winning his last cap when playing with the Blues - and faced the likes of England and Scotland in the past.

His last international appearance came whilst playing for Waterford FC, as he started a European Championship qualifier away to Serbia in Belgrade in June 2019.

Following his stint in Ireland with both Waterford FC and Dundalk, Chvedukas moved to clubs in Malta, Finland, and then back to Lithuania, having previously played in Croatia and Poland.

He had been playing with Lithuanian side and hometown club Marijampolė City last season.

In a statement, Waterford FC expressed sincere condolences to Karolis' family.

"Waterford FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Blues midfielder Karolis Chvedukas," Waterford FC said. "The Lithuanian international played 22 times for the club in the 2019 season. Our thoughts are with Karolis' family and friends."

"Everyone at the League of Ireland sends our deep sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Karolis Chvedukas after his tragic passing. Karolis played for Dundalk and Waterford during his time in the League of Ireland and will be missed by all", a statement read.

"We were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Karolis Chvedukas this afternoon," Dundalk added.

"I’ll say Karolis was one of the soundest players I’ve interviewed and I’m very sad to hear that he is gone", said renowned Blues fan Shane Murphy. "He’ll be remembered in Waterford as much as any of the countries he played in during his career. A good character on and off the pitch"